HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tickets are now on sale for the annual Hutch Rec Brewfest. This year's event will coincide with the fall festival Oct. 2.

Ten area breweries will showcase their best brews in the downtown area. The event runs from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. Tickets are $40 through Sept. 30 and $50 Oct. 1 and 2.&nbsp;

Fall Fest is part of an overall celebration that includes Hutch Rec's 5K and 10K runs, Judy’s Mile run and walk, and the Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run. For more information, <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/race-series-events/">visit hutchrec.com</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627673181409.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tickets are now on sale for the annual Hutch Rec Brewfest. This year's event will coincide with the fall festival Oct. 2.Ten area breweries will showcase their best brews in the downtown area. The event runs from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. Tickets are $40 through Sept. 30 and $50 Oct. 1 and 2.&nbsp;Fall Fest is part of an overall celebration that includes Hutch Rec's 5K and 10K runs, Judy’s Mile run and walk, and the Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run. For more information, <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/race-series-events/">visit hutchrec.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tickets on sale for Brewfest

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man convicted of holding up two convenience stores in January will be sentenced Friday in Reno County District Court.

Kevon Ford and 21-year-old Trever McDade were arrested in the armed holdups of the 17th and Monroe and the 43rd and Plum Kwik Shop stores. In both cases, an armed man using an ice scraper or a hand saw as weapons made off with either money or tobacco products, or both.&nbsp;

The two were arrested when officers arrived in the area of 43rd and Plum and located both subjects in a vehicle that had been reported stolen earlier that morning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1612128949672.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man convicted of holding up two convenience stores in January will be sentenced Friday in Reno County District Court.Kevon Ford and 21-year-old Trever McDade were arrested in the armed holdups of the 17th and Monroe and the 43rd and Plum Kwik Shop stores. In both cases, an armed man using an ice scraper or a hand saw as weapons made off with either money or tobacco products, or both.&nbsp;The two were arrested when officers arrived in the area of 43rd and Plum and located both subjects in a vehicle that had been reported stolen earlier that morning.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Man involved in armed holdups to be sentenced Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is Governor's Day at the Kansas State Fair, a tradition that dates back to the very first fair. The day kicked off with the Chamber's annual breakfast where Gov. Laura Kelly spoke. Kelly spoke very little about the fair and instead took time to talk about her time as governor.&nbsp;

“Gov. George Hodges rode the train to Hutchinson . . . in 1913 to open the first fair,” emcee Richard Shank said. “He actually came two days after the fair started because he had a fear that it would not open at all.”

Shank also talked about the day Hutchinson Sen. Emerson Carey pushed to bring the fair to Hutchinson in 1913.

“It was an amazing day in 1913 when our senator, Emerson Carey, stood in the well of the Senate and said, 'If you will make Hutchinson the home of the official Kansas State Fair, we will give you 300 acres of prime real estate on the north edge of the city,'” Shank said. “It was what everybody wanted to hear. There were 12 cities vying to be home of the state fair, Hutchinson won out that particular day.”

Author William Allen White also visited the fair as a candidate for governor and produced one of the better quotes when the state was dealing with prohibition. White ran as an independent candidate for governor because neither of the other two candidates would denounce the Ku Klux Klan.

“White said his biggest fear was not the Klan but that he would get elected,” Shank said. “While here, he was asked about the issue of prohibition, a prominent issue of that time, and he gave the quote: ‘Kansans will vote dry as long as they can stagger to the polls to vote.’”

Here are other notable visits involving the governor: In 1961, the Today Show was broadcasting live from the fair with new Gov. John Anderson Jr. Sept. 11, 2001, Gov. Bill Graves was on the fairgrounds during the terrorist attacks on our county. Graves insisted that the fair should go on, not wanting to give in to terrorists.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594650625292.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is Governor's Day at the Kansas State Fair, a tradition that dates back to the very first fair. The day kicked off with the Chamber's annual breakfast where Gov. Laura Kelly spoke. Kelly spoke very little about the fair and instead took time to talk about her time as governor.&nbsp;“Gov. George Hodges rode the train to Hutchinson . . . in 1913 to open the first fair,” emcee Richard Shank said. “He actually came two days after the fair started because he had a fear that it would not open at all.”Shank also talked about the day Hutchinson Sen. Emerson Carey pushed to bring the fair to Hutchinson in 1913.“It was an amazing day in 1913 when our senator, Emerson Carey, stood in the well of the Senate and said, 'If you will make Hutchinson the home of the official Kansas State Fair, we will give you 300 acres of prime real estate on the north edge of the city,'” Shank said. “It was what everybody wanted to hear. There were 12 cities vying to be home of the state fair, Hutchinson won out that particular day.”Author William Allen White also visited the fair as a candidate for governor and produced one of the better quotes when the state was dealing with prohibition. White ran as an independent candidate for governor because neither of the other two candidates would denounce the Ku Klux Klan.“White said his biggest fear was not the Klan but that he would get elected,” Shank said. “While here, he was asked about the issue of prohibition, a prominent issue of that time, and he gave the quote: ‘Kansans will vote dry as long as they can stagger to the polls to vote.’”Here are other notable visits involving the governor: In 1961, the Today Show was broadcasting live from the fair with new Gov. John Anderson Jr. Sept. 11, 2001, Gov. Bill Graves was on the fairgrounds during the terrorist attacks on our county. Graves insisted that the fair should go on, not wanting to give in to terrorists.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Shank talks about history of Governor's Day at the fair

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Celebrate 150 years of Hutchinson and Reno County with The Decades: a 15-part series with a new decade released each Sunday morning. Follow the links below to catch up on the latest edition.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/239f71e3-58f9-4107-b657-04ace0aba6e5">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1870s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/4523eb41-6726-4b1d-8ef5-54dedbe74d38">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1880s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/aed5c227-5456-4c86-b4e0-2da58b625d79">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1890s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/cbb05344-de8a-41cb-bc81-4f2b031d0e3e">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1900s</a>

The Decades are brought to you by: <a href="http://www.hutchinsonfc.com/">Hutchinson Funeral Chapel</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rothefloors/">Rothe Family Flooring</a> <a href="https://www.hutchpl.org/">Hutchinson Public Library</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629504018461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Celebrate 150 years of Hutchinson and Reno County with The Decades: a 15-part series with a new decade released each Sunday morning. Follow the links below to catch up on the latest edition.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/239f71e3-58f9-4107-b657-04ace0aba6e5">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1870s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/4523eb41-6726-4b1d-8ef5-54dedbe74d38">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1880s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/aed5c227-5456-4c86-b4e0-2da58b625d79">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1890s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/cbb05344-de8a-41cb-bc81-4f2b031d0e3e">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1900s</a>The Decades are brought to you by: <a href="http://www.hutchinsonfc.com/">Hutchinson Funeral Chapel</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rothefloors/">Rothe Family Flooring</a> <a href="https://www.hutchpl.org/">Hutchinson Public Library</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

The Decades: 1910s coming this Sunday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly said Thursday that vaccine mandates are not a direction she plans to go right now.

"I don't have any intention of going down that road right now," Kelly said. "I think what we are doing with vaccines and taking them out to the community, taking them out to places where people feel comfortable and trust those around them is the road that we're going to continue on down now."

Kelly acknowledges that different jurisdictions and different businesses will make their own policy in that regard.

"I was just in New York on a trade mission," Kelly said. "In order to get into a restaurant in New York, I had to show my vaccine card. There's a lot of that going on, just sort of organically. I'm fully aware that the President has announced the mandate for businesses with over 100 employees. We don't really know what that means. We haven't seen the guidelines. The mandate is also softened though, by, if you don't want to get vaccinated, at least get tested."

Pfizer has said that they will seek emergency use authorization for children. Kelly plans to make sure the rollout happens if that is approved.

"When the vaccines are available for our 5 to 12 year olds, then you can trust that we will make sure that we get those vaccines into our schools and hopefully into the arms of all of our schoolchildren," Kelly said. 

Kelly was in Hutchinson for the Governor's Day at the Kansas State Fair and to speak to students at Hutchinson Community College. The full interview with Kelly is below.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly said Thursday that vaccine mandates are not a direction she plans to go right now."I don't have any intention of going down that road right now," Kelly said. "I think what we are doing with vaccines and taking them out to the community, taking them out to places where people feel comfortable and trust those around them is the road that we're going to continue on down now."Kelly acknowledges that different jurisdictions and different businesses will make their own policy in that regard."I was just in New York on a trade mission," Kelly said. "In order to get into a restaurant in New York, I had to show my vaccine card. There's a lot of that going on, just sort of organically. I'm fully aware that the President has announced the mandate for businesses with over 100 employees. We don't really know what that means. We haven't seen the guidelines. The mandate is also softened though, by, if you don't want to get vaccinated, at least get tested."Pfizer has said that they will seek emergency use authorization for children. Kelly plans to make sure the rollout happens if that is approved."When the vaccines are available for our 5 to 12 year olds, then you can trust that we will make sure that we get those vaccines into our schools and hopefully into the arms of all of our schoolchildren," Kelly said. Kelly was in Hutchinson for the Governor's Day at the Kansas State Fair and to speak to students at Hutchinson Community College. The full interview with Kelly is below.<div><iframe title="BONUS PODCAST: Governor Laura Kelly" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=aei8j-10e015d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

Kelly: 'Don't have any intention' of mandating vaccines

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —The Reno County Sheriff's Office, along with dozens of other law enforcement agencies across the state, participated in the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign from August 20th through September 6th.

During the campaign, deputies conducted special DUI patrols with the intent of removing any impaired drivers off of the roadways to keep motorists safe. 

Deputies made a total of 52 traffic stops, ten notices to appear (tickets) were issued to drivers, and 79 warnings for various violations were given. 

There was just one arrest for DUI and a second for possession of a firearm while intoxicated.&nbsp;

The Sheriff's Office would like to thank those that were responsible and arranged for a designated driver or simply chose not to drive while impaired.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —The Reno County Sheriff's Office, along with dozens of other law enforcement agencies across the state, participated in the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign from August 20th through September 6th.During the campaign, deputies conducted special DUI patrols with the intent of removing any impaired drivers off of the roadways to keep motorists safe. Deputies made a total of 52 traffic stops, ten notices to appear (tickets) were issued to drivers, and 79 warnings for various violations were given. There was just one arrest for DUI and a second for possession of a firearm while intoxicated.&nbsp;The Sheriff's Office would like to thank those that were responsible and arranged for a designated driver or simply chose not to drive while impaired.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

DUI campaign numbers released

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board has its new board member. During Monday’s meeting the school board appointed Jane Gamber to fill the vacant position.

The board had appointed Ryan Maehs to fill the spot only to learn that he lived just outside the area he was to serve. Gamber brings a wealth of experience in education to the board. She is a retired professor from Hutchinson Community College.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628266388485.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board has its new board member. During Monday’s meeting the school board appointed Jane Gamber to fill the vacant position.The board had appointed Ryan Maehs to fill the spot only to learn that he lived just outside the area he was to serve. Gamber brings a wealth of experience in education to the board. She is a retired professor from Hutchinson Community College.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 309 has its new board member


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Corn harvest is happening across Central Kansas and Evergy is asking farmers to pay attention to the location of power lines when they are using equipment.

"We want to make sure that farmers know the size of their equipment and where the power lines are," said Beverly Figge with Evergy. "Whether they are going in and out of the field, or whether they are unloading their grain onto a truck or trailer, we want to make sure that their equipment is at least 10 feet away from power lines for electrical safety, not only for them and their equipment, but for everyone around them, as well."

It's important that farmers think about how their GPS systems lead their equipment when harvesting, too.

"When they are scoping out their fields, they need to take extra time to know where those guide wires are, where the poles are and where the electrical overhead lines are," Figge said. "Ten feet is not very far. We have an opportunity to change those settings, even though our tractors want to get a little closer."

Also, farmers need to have a plan in case an accident were to occur.

"If there is an accident, you do get into the power line, or you see a downed power line, know who to contact," Figge said. "That would be 911 first and then your local power company, whether that be Evergy or a local rural electric company that you are working with."

For more information, go to <a href="https://www.evergy.com/">evergy.com</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631803416255.jpeg" alt="2021 Harvest Photo-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>2021 Harvest Photo-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Corn harvest is happening across Central Kansas and Evergy is asking farmers to pay attention to the location of power lines when they are using equipment."We want to make sure that farmers know the size of their equipment and where the power lines are," said Beverly Figge with Evergy. "Whether they are going in and out of the field, or whether they are unloading their grain onto a truck or trailer, we want to make sure that their equipment is at least 10 feet away from power lines for electrical safety, not only for them and their equipment, but for everyone around them, as well."It's important that farmers think about how their GPS systems lead their equipment when harvesting, too."When they are scoping out their fields, they need to take extra time to know where those guide wires are, where the poles are and where the electrical overhead lines are," Figge said. "Ten feet is not very far. We have an opportunity to change those settings, even though our tractors want to get a little closer."Also, farmers need to have a plan in case an accident were to occur."If there is an accident, you do get into the power line, or you see a downed power line, know who to contact," Figge said. "That would be 911 first and then your local power company, whether that be Evergy or a local rural electric company that you are working with."For more information, go to <a href="https://www.evergy.com/">evergy.com</a>.

Evergy: Know where power lines are during harvest


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; The United Way and Resilience Reno County invite members of the community to participate in an event to help build a stronger Reno County. The "Welcome to the State of Poverty" simulation will be October 11th. Participants can choose from either of two opportunities, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Pavilion located at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare Center.

Thirteen percent of Reno County residents live in poverty each day. Many more have incomes above the poverty line, but their incomes are still low enough that they can’t afford basic needs like food, decent housing, or quality childcare.  It is difficult for those who have enough to truly understand the situations that families living in poverty experience every day, the decisions they have to make, and the fears and frustrations they feel. 

Every citizen of Reno County has a role to play in creating opportunities for employment, helping to close the achievement gap for school children, and encouraging adults to re-invest in their own education.  This experience is designed to increase social awareness of what living in poverty feels like and help participants understand the barriers faced by a typical low-income family trying to survive from month to month.

In addition to assuming the roles of different families facing poverty during the simulation, participants will also hear first-hand the realities faced on a day-to-day basis.  It is a "walk-a-mile-in-my-shoes" experience.

The simulation requires a group of 80 people to assume the roles of families living in poverty. The goal for each family is to survive for one month, which takes place in four 15-minute "weeks".  During this time, the family must maintain secure shelter, pay utilities, be fed, make loan payments, meet living expenses, and keep children in school, all while subsisting at or below the poverty level.

Participation is free, but registration is required. Since the simulation is based on a variety of family scenarios, participants will become a "family member" when they RSVP.  A light lunch/dinner will be provided.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; The United Way and Resilience Reno County invite members of the community to participate in an event to help build a stronger Reno County. The "Welcome to the State of Poverty" simulation will be October 11th. Participants can choose from either of two opportunities, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Pavilion located at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare Center.Thirteen percent of Reno County residents live in poverty each day. Many more have incomes above the poverty line, but their incomes are still low enough that they can’t afford basic needs like food, decent housing, or quality childcare. It is difficult for those who have enough to truly understand the situations that families living in poverty experience every day, the decisions they have to make, and the fears and frustrations they feel. Every citizen of Reno County has a role to play in creating opportunities for employment, helping to close the achievement gap for school children, and encouraging adults to re-invest in their own education. This experience is designed to increase social awareness of what living in poverty feels like and help participants understand the barriers faced by a typical low-income family trying to survive from month to month.In addition to assuming the roles of different families facing poverty during the simulation, participants will also hear first-hand the realities faced on a day-to-day basis. It is a "walk-a-mile-in-my-shoes" experience.The simulation requires a group of 80 people to assume the roles of families living in poverty. The goal for each family is to survive for one month, which takes place in four 15-minute "weeks". During this time, the family must maintain secure shelter, pay utilities, be fed, make loan payments, meet living expenses, and keep children in school, all while subsisting at or below the poverty level.Participation is free, but registration is required. Since the simulation is based on a variety of family scenarios, participants will become a "family member" when they RSVP. A light lunch/dinner will be provided.

Poverty simulation coming up October 11


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday approved a solar farm in the far northeast corner of Reno County.

"It's averaging about a dollar a kilowatt," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "This is an expected $1.4 million investment in the county in an area that probably would never see that kind of investment if we hadn't fostered this."

The property is located on the south side of E. 108th Avenue, approximately 825 feet east of the intersection of N. Sunrise Road and E. 108th Avenue. 

"Unlike some solar farms, this power generator will stay with Ark Valley customers only," said county planner Mark Vonachen. "It will not be sold or distributed elsewhere. It's strictly for the benefit of customers from Ark Valley. The area around the solar farm is going to be secured by a six-foot fence with barbed wire. The project will also comply with the national electric code standards. The project is designed to last at least 25 years."

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the request by a 5-0 vote and the County Commission also passed it unanimously.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631792579023.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday approved a solar farm in the far northeast corner of Reno County."It's averaging about a dollar a kilowatt," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "This is an expected $1.4 million investment in the county in an area that probably would never see that kind of investment if we hadn't fostered this."The property is located on the south side of E. 108th Avenue, approximately 825 feet east of the intersection of N. Sunrise Road and E. 108th Avenue. "Unlike some solar farms, this power generator will stay with Ark Valley customers only," said county planner Mark Vonachen. "It will not be sold or distributed elsewhere. It's strictly for the benefit of customers from Ark Valley. The area around the solar farm is going to be secured by a six-foot fence with barbed wire. The project will also comply with the national electric code standards. The project is designed to last at least 25 years."The Planning Commission recommended approval of the request by a 5-0 vote and the County Commission also passed it unanimously.

Solar farm approved by Reno County Commissioners


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann continues to be concerned by the Biden Administration's attempt to expand government through executive orders.

"The Founding Fathers never intended for the President, or the executive branch to bypass Congress with overreaching executive orders and basically governing through executive orders, rulemaking, bureaucracies, those kinds of things," Mann said. "In the first week of the Biden administration, there were more executive orders than in the last ten Presidents combined, their first week. My first piece of legislation was pushing back on these executive orders, limiting them, requiring some notification periods, trying to rein that in. Regardless of party, that's a big problem."

The size of government is also an ongoing concern for Mann.

"The last 18 months, there's no doubt of the fact that the federal government has dramatically grown," Mann said. "It is more intrusive in Kansans lives and in lives of those in the Big First. I am concerned about where that road leads us."

As a member of the minority party in the lower house of a Congress that the administration is not consulting on many issues anyway, how does Mann push back against the tide?

"We are in a battle for hearts and minds that then results in people's votes in Washington D.C.," Mann said. "We are strongly engaged in that battle. How do we win that battle? One is by having conversations both publicly and privately with a lot of members. Two, doing good work at the committee level is essential to good representation in Congress. Three, writing and submitting good legislation that has merits regardless of the aisle that somebody's on as they are looking at it. Four, a lot of things that have been put into effect from the executive branch is unconstitutional. We've got to be pushing back and fighting about that in court. Five, the rulemaking process, a lot of these things, the details of them, like the vaccine mandate, come out in the rulemaking process. Providing oversight and pushback at that step in the process is something that we're doing a lot, as well and then also, it's just being loud and outspoken about the things the Big First needs and wants."

The full interview with Congressman Mann is below.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611836622184.jpeg" alt="Rep-Tracey-Mann-KS01 Official Photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep-Tracey-Mann-KS01 Official Photo</figcaption>
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann continues to be concerned by the Biden Administration's attempt to expand government through executive orders."The Founding Fathers never intended for the President, or the executive branch to bypass Congress with overreaching executive orders and basically governing through executive orders, rulemaking, bureaucracies, those kinds of things," Mann said. "In the first week of the Biden administration, there were more executive orders than in the last ten Presidents combined, their first week. My first piece of legislation was pushing back on these executive orders, limiting them, requiring some notification periods, trying to rein that in. Regardless of party, that's a big problem."The size of government is also an ongoing concern for Mann."The last 18 months, there's no doubt of the fact that the federal government has dramatically grown," Mann said. "It is more intrusive in Kansans lives and in lives of those in the Big First. I am concerned about where that road leads us."As a member of the minority party in the lower house of a Congress that the administration is not consulting on many issues anyway, how does Mann push back against the tide?"We are in a battle for hearts and minds that then results in people's votes in Washington D.C.," Mann said. "We are strongly engaged in that battle. How do we win that battle? One is by having conversations both publicly and privately with a lot of members. Two, doing good work at the committee level is essential to good representation in Congress. Three, writing and submitting good legislation that has merits regardless of the aisle that somebody's on as they are looking at it. Four, a lot of things that have been put into effect from the executive branch is unconstitutional. We've got to be pushing back and fighting about that in court. Five, the rulemaking process, a lot of these things, the details of them, like the vaccine mandate, come out in the rulemaking process. Providing oversight and pushback at that step in the process is something that we're doing a lot, as well and then also, it's just being loud and outspoken about the things the Big First needs and wants."The full interview with Congressman Mann is below.<div><iframe title="BONUS PODCAST: Congressman Tracey Mann" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=t3vdx-10dfc66-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

Mann: Expansion of government via executive order 'never intended' by Founding Fathers

HutchCC president likes theory behind Regents proposals, Officer convicted in George Floyd killing in court again, plus more from Hutch Post.

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 </figure>HutchCC president likes theory behind Regents proposals, Officer convicted in George Floyd killing in court again, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="September 16, 2021 Morning News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nmbyw-10dfc50-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

September 16, 2021 Morning News


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Department on Aging announced Wednesday that the open enrollment period for 2022 Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans will be held from October 15 through December 7.&nbsp; 

The Reno County Department of Aging will once again partner with trained SHICK volunteers from the Reno County Volunteer Center to offer counseling and assistance for Reno County residents over age 60 who need help enrolling or reviewing their drug coverage. SHICK is the acronym for the Senior Health Insurance Counselors in Kansas program conducted through the Kansas Department of Aging.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you are on Medicare Part A or Part A &amp; B and currently have or want to have a Part D Prescription Drug Plan you will need to make an appointment. If you are currently on KanCare you do not need to make an appointment because your prescription drugs are being managed through the KanCare program.

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, contact your plan provider to discuss your prescription drug coverage for 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;The counseling and enrollment assistance will be offered through personal telephone appointments on a first come first served basis. Those interested in assistance can call 620-694-2911 for an appointment.&nbsp; Appointments are available now and will be accepted October 15 – November 30, 2021.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Department on Aging announced Wednesday that the open enrollment period for 2022 Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans will be held from October 15 through December 7.&nbsp; The Reno County Department of Aging will once again partner with trained SHICK volunteers from the Reno County Volunteer Center to offer counseling and assistance for Reno County residents over age 60 who need help enrolling or reviewing their drug coverage. SHICK is the acronym for the Senior Health Insurance Counselors in Kansas program conducted through the Kansas Department of Aging.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are on Medicare Part A or Part A &amp; B and currently have or want to have a Part D Prescription Drug Plan you will need to make an appointment. If you are currently on KanCare you do not need to make an appointment because your prescription drugs are being managed through the KanCare program.If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, contact your plan provider to discuss your prescription drug coverage for 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The counseling and enrollment assistance will be offered through personal telephone appointments on a first come first served basis. Those interested in assistance can call 620-694-2911 for an appointment.&nbsp; Appointments are available now and will be accepted October 15 – November 30, 2021.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reno County offering assistance for Medicare Part D paperwork

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce continues to take nominations for their Board of Directors. At the September 14 Chamber Board Meeting, the Board of Directors approved the slate of the following five members to be voted on by membership to serve a three-year term on the Chamber Board:

If you have someone you would like to nominate for the Chamber Board in addition to the names above, please go to hutchchamber.com. The 2022 Chamber Board ballot will be sent to all Chamber members in good standing on or before October 1.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625686816585.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce continues to take nominations for their Board of Directors. At the September 14 Chamber Board Meeting, the Board of Directors approved the slate of the following five members to be voted on by membership to serve a three-year term on the Chamber Board:<ul>
 <li>Brett Henry - Adams Brown</li><li>Coby Cost - Tyson Foods</li><li>Sarah Fankhauser - DCI</li><li>Michelle Pitts - Reno County Farm Bureau</li><li>Kevin Rule - Sleep Shoppe &amp; Furniture Gallery</li>
 </ul>If you have someone you would like to nominate for the Chamber Board in addition to the names above, please go to hutchchamber.com. The 2022 Chamber Board ballot will be sent to all Chamber members in good standing on or before October 1.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Chamber still looking for nominations to board


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Board of Regents CEO Blake Flanders asked the Kansas State Board of Education on Wednesday to consider two major proposals, one is to require students complete the FAFSA to graduate high school. HutchCC President Carter File thinks that is a terrific idea.

"I think it's a wonderful way to help students understand that, especially for socioeconomically challenged families and individuals, that college, community colleges, are very, very affordable," File said. "Completing the FAFSA is that first step to getting federal financial aid."

Flanders also wants to see Kansas provide in high school, 15 college credit hours free for low-income and first-generation students.

"We already have the Senate Bill 155 program that pays for the full cost of providing an education for students in select technical areas," File said. "That's been a wildly successful program. We have such a great relationship with our local high school and in particular, 308 at the HCTEA. I think, if you want to look at a roadmap or a model for what's being suggested here, that's a great idea."

Regents and State Board of Ed leaders plan to meet over the next few weeks to come up with an action plan on the proposals.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Board of Regents CEO Blake Flanders asked the Kansas State Board of Education on Wednesday to consider two major proposals, one is to require students complete the FAFSA to graduate high school. HutchCC President Carter File thinks that is a terrific idea."I think it's a wonderful way to help students understand that, especially for socioeconomically challenged families and individuals, that college, community colleges, are very, very affordable," File said. "Completing the FAFSA is that first step to getting federal financial aid."Flanders also wants to see Kansas provide in high school, 15 college credit hours free for low-income and first-generation students."We already have the Senate Bill 155 program that pays for the full cost of providing an education for students in select technical areas," File said. "That's been a wildly successful program. We have such a great relationship with our local high school and in particular, 308 at the HCTEA. I think, if you want to look at a roadmap or a model for what's being suggested here, that's a great idea."Regents and State Board of Ed leaders plan to meet over the next few weeks to come up with an action plan on the proposals.

File: Proposals before State Board of Ed are worth looking into

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two people were arrested following a high speed chase Tuesday night. According to the Reno County Sheriff’s Department, Clancy Nelson fled from law enforcement as they tried to make a vehicle stop in the city.&nbsp;

Nelson drove south on Avenue A to US 50 and then east at speeds of up to 90 miles per hour. Deputies were able to force Nelson off the road near Burrton, where he was taken to the hospital before being taken to jail. He faces potential charges of aggravated kidnapping, drug possession and fleeing and eluding. His bond is set at $221,000.&nbsp;

One of two passengers in the vehicle, Heather Smith was also arrested for drug distribution and other warrants. She is jailed on a bond of $28,500. The second passenger was released from the scene.

According to the SO the two passengers wanted out of the vehicle during the chase but Nelson refused thus the potential kidnapping charges. Formal charges are expected to be filed within a week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631628877082.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two people were arrested following a high speed chase Tuesday night. According to the Reno County Sheriff’s Department, Clancy Nelson fled from law enforcement as they tried to make a vehicle stop in the city.&nbsp;Nelson drove south on Avenue A to US 50 and then east at speeds of up to 90 miles per hour. Deputies were able to force Nelson off the road near Burrton, where he was taken to the hospital before being taken to jail. He faces potential charges of aggravated kidnapping, drug possession and fleeing and eluding. His bond is set at $221,000.&nbsp;One of two passengers in the vehicle, Heather Smith was also arrested for drug distribution and other warrants. She is jailed on a bond of $28,500. The second passenger was released from the scene.According to the SO the two passengers wanted out of the vehicle during the chase but Nelson refused thus the potential kidnapping charges. Formal charges are expected to be filed within a week.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two arrested following high speed chase

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Those who visit the Kansas State Fair will notice that the House of Capper looks a little different. The roof of the open air structure has been removed and the building is undergoing a major renovation.&nbsp;

To kick off the Capper project, Kansas Cooperative Council presented the first $50,000 Tuesday and will match an additional $100,000 as the project continues. This project is a partnership including the Kansas Cooperative Council, Kansas State Fair Foundation, and Kansas State Fair.

Originally built in 1913, House of Capper is one of the oldest buildings on the fairgrounds. Fairgoers have long enjoyed attending presentations and relaxing in the shaded, quiet area.The rebuilt structure will recognize local, regional, state, and national cooperatives on House of Capper’s 20 pillars.

The Mission of the Kansas Cooperative Council is to promote, support and advance the interests, business success and understanding of agricultural, utility, credit and consumer cooperatives and their members through legislation and regulatory efforts, education, and public relations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631720355217.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Those who visit the Kansas State Fair will notice that the House of Capper looks a little different. The roof of the open air structure has been removed and the building is undergoing a major renovation.&nbsp;To kick off the Capper project, Kansas Cooperative Council presented the first $50,000 Tuesday and will match an additional $100,000 as the project continues. This project is a partnership including the Kansas Cooperative Council, Kansas State Fair Foundation, and Kansas State Fair.Originally built in 1913, House of Capper is one of the oldest buildings on the fairgrounds. Fairgoers have long enjoyed attending presentations and relaxing in the shaded, quiet area.The rebuilt structure will recognize local, regional, state, and national cooperatives on House of Capper’s 20 pillars.The Mission of the Kansas Cooperative Council is to promote, support and advance the interests, business success and understanding of agricultural, utility, credit and consumer cooperatives and their members through legislation and regulatory efforts, education, and public relations.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Cooperative Council donates to House of Capper project

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Planning Commission will revisit a request from Mid States Materials to establish an aggregate storage yard just west of Nickerson.

The matter was tabled after the company revised its plans for the property. The commission also heard from Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Curtin Nightingale who expressed concerns about the extra truck traffic around the high school.

Also Thursday, the commission will go over a conditional use permit to establish a firearms range and training facility located near the landfill. The shooting range will be located just south of the landfill along the closed area of Mohawk Road.

Thursday’s meeting of the Reno County Planning Commission begins at 4:30 p.m. at the public works facility at 600 Scott Blvd.

<figure>
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 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Planning Commission will revisit a request from Mid States Materials to establish an aggregate storage yard just west of Nickerson.The matter was tabled after the company revised its plans for the property. The commission also heard from Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Curtin Nightingale who expressed concerns about the extra truck traffic around the high school.Also Thursday, the commission will go over a conditional use permit to establish a firearms range and training facility located near the landfill. The shooting range will be located just south of the landfill along the closed area of Mohawk Road.Thursday’s meeting of the Reno County Planning Commission begins at 4:30 p.m. at the public works facility at 600 Scott Blvd.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

County Planning Commission to address shooting range permit


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Board of Commissioners clearly wants to express their desire to see regulations eased to make an effort to allow for more childcare options in the community. County Commissioner Ron Sellers acknowledged the previous statements of Chairman Ron Hirst in support of legislative reform in that area.

"I hope we can say something before the Legislature starts again next year," Sellers said. "I would like to make some kind of formal document to our legislative group to help get the state to work on that better."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c1496764-4bfa-4fb6-83d3-7e36c29c2f79">Reno County nonprofit groups have been sounding the alarm regarding childcare supply in recent months. </a>

The Reno County Health Department hosted a childcare training and orientation class earlier this month.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Board of Commissioners clearly wants to express their desire to see regulations eased to make an effort to allow for more childcare options in the community. County Commissioner Ron Sellers acknowledged the previous statements of Chairman Ron Hirst in support of legislative reform in that area."I hope we can say something before the Legislature starts again next year," Sellers said. "I would like to make some kind of formal document to our legislative group to help get the state to work on that better."<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c1496764-4bfa-4fb6-83d3-7e36c29c2f79">Reno County nonprofit groups have been sounding the alarm regarding childcare supply in recent months. </a>The Reno County Health Department hosted a childcare training and orientation class earlier this month.

Commissioners will support childcare reform at state level


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With the closure of St. John-Hudson schools due to both students and staff contracting COVID-19, Hutch Post asked Reno County superintendents on Tuesday if closing their buildings was an option.

USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman: It is not on the table at this given time in Buhler Schools. Our current COVID active case count is currently low enough that shutting down schools is not needed to mitigate the virus spread.

USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks: At this time, USD 308 does not believe we have any need to shut down a building or the district. We are starting to put together a plan on action to be proactive in case of the need to shut down a building. Currently, our total positivity rate in our district is 80 positives for 5000 students and staff, which is approximately 1.6%.

USD 312 Superintendent Clark Wedel: Haven is not planning on a shut down currently.  We would need to see multiple staff members be effected for this to happen.  Staffing concerns could be our biggest reason for a shut down.

USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale: Our positive cases have been fairly low. Quarantines have been our issue but not to the point of a shutdown at this point, thankfully. 

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With the closure of St. John-Hudson schools due to both students and staff contracting COVID-19, Hutch Post asked Reno County superintendents on Tuesday if closing their buildings was an option.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625156550797.jpeg" alt="Cindy Couchman USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Couchman USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman: It is not on the table at this given time in Buhler Schools. Our current COVID active case count is currently low enough that shutting down schools is not needed to mitigate the virus spread.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579618707683.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks: At this time, USD 308 does not believe we have any need to shut down a building or the district. We are starting to put together a plan on action to be proactive in case of the need to shut down a building. Currently, our total positivity rate in our district is 80 positives for 5000 students and staff, which is approximately 1.6%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598539992620.jpeg" alt="Clark Wedel" />
 <figcaption>Clark Wedel</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 312 Superintendent Clark Wedel: Haven is not planning on a shut down currently. We would need to see multiple staff members be effected for this to happen. Staffing concerns could be our biggest reason for a shut down.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618591958347.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale: Our positive cases have been fairly low. Quarantines have been our issue but not to the point of a shutdown at this point, thankfully.

Reno County superintendents: COVID-19 not bad enough to shut buildings


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners passed their resolution in support of listening to the community as to how federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act are spent on Tuesday.

"This one is just for Reno County to show support of the $12,042,385," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "It does state the four objectives that the Treasury Department has put out for the use of such funds and then the four eligible areas for the ARPA money, support health expenditures and address negative economic impacts, replace lost public sector revenues, provide premium pay for essential workers and invest in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure."

Commissioner Ron Sellers highlighted the fact that the federal government wants public input on this.

"They are asking public entities, counties and cities, to ask the public for what they feel is appropriate," Sellers said. "This process that we're agreeing to, to wait until we make our decisions, to hear their report, I think is in keeping with what the federal government has asked us to do, instead of just elected officials making the final decision."

On the other hand, the resolution does get specific as to whose decision it ultimately is.

"Further resolved, that subject to federally established criteria for eligibility, this Board of County Commissioners shall exercise in its sole discretion the authority to prioritize and distribute ARPA Fiscal Recovery Funds and shall not be bound by any recommendations made by the ARPA Taskforce," Sellers read. "I think this commission is going to have some tough decisions to make and we're not all going to agree at the end, but we're agreeing to listen. Hopefully, whatever will come of that is better than not listening."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684125903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners passed their resolution in support of listening to the community as to how federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act are spent on Tuesday."This one is just for Reno County to show support of the $12,042,385," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "It does state the four objectives that the Treasury Department has put out for the use of such funds and then the four eligible areas for the ARPA money, support health expenditures and address negative economic impacts, replace lost public sector revenues, provide premium pay for essential workers and invest in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure."Commissioner Ron Sellers highlighted the fact that the federal government wants public input on this."They are asking public entities, counties and cities, to ask the public for what they feel is appropriate," Sellers said. "This process that we're agreeing to, to wait until we make our decisions, to hear their report, I think is in keeping with what the federal government has asked us to do, instead of just elected officials making the final decision."On the other hand, the resolution does get specific as to whose decision it ultimately is."Further resolved, that subject to federally established criteria for eligibility, this Board of County Commissioners shall exercise in its sole discretion the authority to prioritize and distribute ARPA Fiscal Recovery Funds and shall not be bound by any recommendations made by the ARPA Taskforce," Sellers read. "I think this commission is going to have some tough decisions to make and we're not all going to agree at the end, but we're agreeing to listen. Hopefully, whatever will come of that is better than not listening."The resolution passed unanimously.

Commission passes ARPA resolution Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar asked for a longer extension of the county's emergency declaration on Tuesday than the agenda originally called for.

"What I'm actually going to request this morning is an extension for 60 days," Weishaar said. "All the way back on March 19, 2020, Reno County declared a public health emergency and that was extended several times, to end up expiring on June 31, 2021. June 31, 2021, we had nine active cases in the county. We weren't requesting resources from the state. Things were pretty calm. Now, our case count has picked up significantly and we are now requesting resources from the state."

As Weishaar has explained before, it's those resource requests that are the reason the county needs an emergency declaration in place.

"Some of those resources that we've requested recently include ventilators for the hospital, ventilator arms, testing supplies for our jail, testing supplies for our schools," Weishaar said. "Usually, the county is not allowed to request resources from the state, unless we have a local disaster declaration in place."

The state had been flexible about that previously, but Weishaar doesn't want to take any chances if resources continue to tighten.

"What's going to happen when the flu and COVID get here, what are our numbers going to do?" Weishaar said. "We don't know. I'd rather have the disaster declaration in place to clear the supply lines and clear the help from the state and federal government and leave it in place as long as we need it, but if our case count goes down and we're not requesting resources from the state, by all means, that can expire sooner."

The commission passed the proposal unanimously.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar asked for a longer extension of the county's emergency declaration on Tuesday than the agenda originally called for."What I'm actually going to request this morning is an extension for 60 days," Weishaar said. "All the way back on March 19, 2020, Reno County declared a public health emergency and that was extended several times, to end up expiring on June 31, 2021. June 31, 2021, we had nine active cases in the county. We weren't requesting resources from the state. Things were pretty calm. Now, our case count has picked up significantly and we are now requesting resources from the state."As Weishaar has explained before, it's those resource requests that are the reason the county needs an emergency declaration in place."Some of those resources that we've requested recently include ventilators for the hospital, ventilator arms, testing supplies for our jail, testing supplies for our schools," Weishaar said. "Usually, the county is not allowed to request resources from the state, unless we have a local disaster declaration in place."The state had been flexible about that previously, but Weishaar doesn't want to take any chances if resources continue to tighten."What's going to happen when the flu and COVID get here, what are our numbers going to do?" Weishaar said. "We don't know. I'd rather have the disaster declaration in place to clear the supply lines and clear the help from the state and federal government and leave it in place as long as we need it, but if our case count goes down and we're not requesting resources from the state, by all means, that can expire sooner."The commission passed the proposal unanimously.

Emergency declaration extended for 60 days

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of the large number of quarantines involving USD 308 students and staff, the Hutchinson School Board made changes to its COVID policies during Monday’s meeting.&nbsp;

“We’ve had about 400 quarantines so far this school year,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “With the mask mandate and with the goal and priority of keeping kids in school and keeping everyone safe, it (quarantines) would be disruptive to our educational environment.”

Folks says those numbers and the challenges facing both students and parents with the continuous disruptions in school necessitated the change. Under the new policy, if a student is exposed at school, parents will have some say in whether their child goes to class or not.

“I’ve visited with a lot of medical people and also the Kansas State Department of Education and the Kansas Association of School Boards and felt like the board had local control to give parents an option,” Folks said. “If they want to quarantine, we’ll let them work with the Reno County Health Department.”

What that means is, if a parent wants to send their child to school, making sure they are symptom free and wearing a mask, the student can attend class. If the exposure happens outside the school, such as at home, then parents must work with the health department and quarantine the student.

Folks says that doing testing of students and staff is not a viable option because of the large school population. Folks also said that the positive test rate for the district is low.

“We’re not doing test-to-stay because we’ve got 5,000 students and staff and the large districts that have tried to do test-and-stay have really had logistical challenges,” Folks said. “What I can tell you is that we've had about 80 positives (COVID cases) for students and staff since the beginning of the year, but we’ve had 400 quarantines.” That means less than 2% of the students and staff are known to have had, or currently have, COVID.

The matter was a last-minute addition to the school board meeting on Monday night. A complete copy of the current policy is available at <a href="https://www.usd308.com/article/527528?fbclid=IwAR18fPj8oLEg6DMkbqPJr40P4US00XbzEPVagaNHu9MD73zjkm4d49ftpcU">usd308.com</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of the large number of quarantines involving USD 308 students and staff, the Hutchinson School Board made changes to its COVID policies during Monday’s meeting.&nbsp;“We’ve had about 400 quarantines so far this school year,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “With the mask mandate and with the goal and priority of keeping kids in school and keeping everyone safe, it (quarantines) would be disruptive to our educational environment.”Folks says those numbers and the challenges facing both students and parents with the continuous disruptions in school necessitated the change. Under the new policy, if a student is exposed at school, parents will have some say in whether their child goes to class or not.“I’ve visited with a lot of medical people and also the Kansas State Department of Education and the Kansas Association of School Boards and felt like the board had local control to give parents an option,” Folks said. “If they want to quarantine, we’ll let them work with the Reno County Health Department.”What that means is, if a parent wants to send their child to school, making sure they are symptom free and wearing a mask, the student can attend class. If the exposure happens outside the school, such as at home, then parents must work with the health department and quarantine the student.Folks says that doing testing of students and staff is not a viable option because of the large school population. Folks also said that the positive test rate for the district is low.“We’re not doing test-to-stay because we’ve got 5,000 students and staff and the large districts that have tried to do test-and-stay have really had logistical challenges,” Folks said. “What I can tell you is that we've had about 80 positives (COVID cases) for students and staff since the beginning of the year, but we’ve had 400 quarantines.” That means less than 2% of the students and staff are known to have had, or currently have, COVID.The matter was a last-minute addition to the school board meeting on Monday night. A complete copy of the current policy is available at <a href="https://www.usd308.com/article/527528?fbclid=IwAR18fPj8oLEg6DMkbqPJr40P4US00XbzEPVagaNHu9MD73zjkm4d49ftpcU">usd308.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 308 changes its COVID policy 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab visited Hutchinson Tuesday to speak to a Republican Party gathering.

"We want confidence in our election systems," Schwab said. "This is a part of that. They've invited us to come out. We had to switch days due to a conflict, so we're coming out today. It's my second trip to Hutchinson and Reno County this week."

Keeping ballots secure is something Schwab wanted to make a greater effort in.

"Some of the things that we're trying to do is update systems," Schwab said. "We did get a lot of federal dollars, so some of the simple things we did were drop boxes for mail ballots. There were county clerks in Kansas receiving ballots through the mail as late as March of this year for the last November election, so we really wanted to encourage folks, don't mail your ballot, drop it off in a drop box."

Schwab said it's important that elections continue to be run at the state level, because it is more efficient.

"From our standpoint, we can't afford it," Schwab said. "I think, if we don't want federal elections to be run through D.C., then they also need to be funded locally, which Kansas does. Some of my colleagues across the country are asking for money, but not the legislation. I say, let's just say no to both of them. One of the problems they have is they are increasing the amount of early day voting. What we do is we allow local control. So, we may have a county, let's say Grant County, doesn't need 20 days of staff plus rent of early voting. They only need a couple because they don't have the population. The chair of the elections committee is out of Los Angeles. She has a Los Angeles population mentality of Grant County, Kansas. That law that might work good in L.A., is not going to work in rural America."

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab visited Hutchinson Tuesday to speak to a Republican Party gathering."We want confidence in our election systems," Schwab said. "This is a part of that. They've invited us to come out. We had to switch days due to a conflict, so we're coming out today. It's my second trip to Hutchinson and Reno County this week."Keeping ballots secure is something Schwab wanted to make a greater effort in."Some of the things that we're trying to do is update systems," Schwab said. "We did get a lot of federal dollars, so some of the simple things we did were drop boxes for mail ballots. There were county clerks in Kansas receiving ballots through the mail as late as March of this year for the last November election, so we really wanted to encourage folks, don't mail your ballot, drop it off in a drop box."Schwab said it's important that elections continue to be run at the state level, because it is more efficient."From our standpoint, we can't afford it," Schwab said. "I think, if we don't want federal elections to be run through D.C., then they also need to be funded locally, which Kansas does. Some of my colleagues across the country are asking for money, but not the legislation. I say, let's just say no to both of them. One of the problems they have is they are increasing the amount of early day voting. What we do is we allow local control. So, we may have a county, let's say Grant County, doesn't need 20 days of staff plus rent of early voting. They only need a couple because they don't have the population. The chair of the elections committee is out of Los Angeles. She has a Los Angeles population mentality of Grant County, Kansas. That law that might work good in L.A., is not going to work in rural America."The full interview with Schwab is below.<div><iframe title="BONUS PODCAST: Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=sfebu-10dd90f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

Schwab: Trips across the state important to keep confidence in elections

PRATT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Tuesday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford Explorer driven by Jason S. Contreras, 40, Ulysses, was west bound on U.S. 54. The SUV left the road way to the south, came back onto the roadway, exited again to the south and rolled into a field.

EMS transported Contreras to the hospital in Pratt. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592740476032.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Tuesday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford Explorer driven by Jason S. Contreras, 40, Ulysses, was west bound on U.S. 54. The SUV left the road way to the south, came back onto the roadway, exited again to the south and rolled into a field.EMS transported Contreras to the hospital in Pratt. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

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